Government of the United States Virgin Islands

Acting Governor Roach and Director Richardson Recognize Third Cohort of GVI Financial Fellows

ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach, Esq., serving as Acting Governor, joined Director of Personnel Cindy Richardson on Tuesday in recognizing members of the third cohort of the Government of the Virgin Islands (GVI) Financial Fellows Program during presentations held at Government House on St. Thomas. 

The GVI Financial Fellows Program was established by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. in 2021 as part of the Bryan-Roach Administration’s broader workforce development strategy. The program is designed to attract, train, and employ high-achieving young Virgin Islanders in key financial and administrative roles across the government. By pairing academic training with hands-on experience and mentorship, the program strengthens the Territory’s public-sector talent pipeline and supports a sustainable economic future for the Virgin Islands. 

Acting Governor Roach commended the Fellows for their commitment to public service and their forward-thinking contributions, informed by their critical work undertaken at the various agencies. 

“Programs like the GVI Financial Fellows are essential to the continued growth and modernization of our government,” Acting Governor Roach said. “These young professionals represent the future of the Virgin Islands public sector, bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a dedication to excellence that will move our Territory forward.” 

During Tuesday’s event, each Fellow delivered a Capstone presentation summarizing their experience and offering insights and recommendations for improving government operations. Government employees who served as mentors to the Fellows were also in attendance to celebrate their mentees’ achievements and provide feedback. 

The presentations included: 

  • Caleisha Simon – “How Can We Grow, if We Don’t Know?” 
  • Chanester Crawford – “The More You Know, The Confident We’ll Grow” 
  • Najae Harris – “The ‘Cost’ of Occupational Burnout” 
  • Faith Prosper – “Harmony in a Multigenerational GVI: For Now and the Future” 

Director Richardson commended the Fellows for their dedication and creativity, noting that their projects reflect a deep understanding of government operations and a strong commitment to public service. Members of the current cohort 4, along with their mentors, were present to support the outgoing cohort.  The Division is slated to introduce a new set of members as cohort 5 later this month. 

The Bryan-Roach Administration remains focused on strengthening the Territory’s workforce through programs like the GVI Financial Fellows, which develop the next generation of leaders while advancing the government’s goals of transparency, accountability, and economic stability. 

For more information, visit transparency.vi.gov, follow @governmenthouseusvi on Facebook, X, and YouTube, and @govhouseusvi on Instagram. 

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